Everything you need to know about coming to FAU
If you come to FAU from a different country, many things may be new to you. In this section, we have collected all the information you need to know and take into account, both before coming to FAU and during your stay here. You can find all the information you need to help you settle in and make the most of your time here on our websites and in the video portal below.
Arriving at FAU
All the important information, services and tips for international students to help you make the most of your stay at FAU.
First steps before entry
Staying in a new country is exciting, and an opportunity to make many new experiences. You should bear in mind that Germany has certain rules, customs, and cultural and social norms that affect how people live and work together – in society and at the University.
Before entering the country, you should…
- Apply for a visa and residence permit and address questions regarding immigration law
- Search for an apartment in Erlangen or the surrounding area
First steps after entering the country
After entering the country, you should take the following steps:
- Register with the registration office at your place of residence and apply for an income tax card.
- Open a German bank account
- Take out health and liability insurance, if you haven’t already
- Attend introductory events for your degree program or faculty
- Attend the Welcome Week hosted by International Affairs
- Enroll at the university
- As soon as you receive your log-in: Activate your IdM portal, and enable your email address and other options
- Activate your FAU Card for library access and as a cafeteria card
- Register for courses via campo and StudOn
- Register for the language courses within the registration deadlines
- Read the degree program and examination regulations and the module plan within the registration deadlines
- If you would like advice, please contact a study advisor.
First steps during your degree program
What you can now expect during your studies:
- For a part-time job: Apply for an income tax card
- Look for a part-time job
- Obtain information about the buddy program and student initiatives
Starting out at FAU – explained by students
FAU provides a number of videos which guide you through everything you need to know when starting at FAU. The most important ones are listed here, but there are a lot more to discover in our Youtube playlist.
